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Video: Rem Koolhaas on the Prada Transformer

On the eve of its opening, Rem Koolhaas explains the concepts behind his flexible exhibition space for Seoul, South Korea

Rem Koolhaas’ Prada Transformer will open to the public tomorrow (April 25) in Seoul, South Korea. Here, the architect explains the concepts behind the adaptable exhibition space and its construction.

The first exhibition in the Prada Transformer is Waist Down - Skirts by Miuccia Prada, showcasing a collection of skirts ‘in motion’ ranging from the first ever Prada show to the present day. The venue will also host a cinema festival, a contemporary art exhibition and other fashion related events in the next five months.

The Transformer, designed by Rem Koolhaas/OMA combines the four sides of a tetrahedron: hexagon, cross, rectangle and circle into one pavilion. The building, entirely covered with a smooth elastic membrane, will be flipped using cranes, completely reconfiguring the visitor’s experience with each new programme.

Each side plan is precisely designed to organize a different event installation, creating a building with four identities. Whenever one shape becomes the ground plan, the other three shapes become the walls and the ceiling defining the space, as well as referencing historic or anticipating future event configurations. The structure is located in the front yard of Gyeonghui Palace in Seoul.

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